Building surveying covers a broader range of services than most people realise. If you've only ever heard of "getting a survey" when buying a house, you might be surprised at how many different things fall under the surveying umbrella. Here's a clear guide to the main services and when you'd use each one.
HomeBuyer Report (Level 2)
The most widely used survey for residential purchases. Suitable for most standard properties built after the 1930s, it gives you a clear condition assessment using a traffic-light rating system and usually includes an opinion of market value. It's the right starting point for most buyers purchasing a property in reasonable condition.
Building Survey (Level 3)
The most detailed residential survey available. A full narrative report covering every accessible element of the building — structure, fabric, services, drainage (where visible) — with detailed commentary on defects, their causes, and recommended action. The right choice for older, extended, or complex properties. Read our full guide to building surveys here.
Condition Report (Level 1)
A basic overview of the property's condition — suitable only for new-build or near-new properties in excellent condition. Rarely the right choice for South East London's predominantly period housing stock.
Valuation Report
An independent assessment of a property's market value, produced for purposes including sale, purchase, remortgage, shared ownership, Help to Buy redemption, probate, matrimonial proceedings, or lease extension. Different from a mortgage valuation — which protects only the lender. Find out more about valuation reports here.
Targeted Defect Reports
Sometimes you don't need a full survey — you need a focused assessment of a specific concern. A targeted defect report covers one particular issue in depth: significant cracking, rising damp, a failing flat roof, suspected structural movement. It gives you a detailed expert view on that specific problem and what needs to be done about it.
Dilapidation Surveys
Used in the commercial sector at the start and end of leases to establish and document the condition of a property. Essential for landlords and tenants to protect their interests and establish responsibilities for reinstatement works at lease end.
Insurance Valuations
An assessment of a property's reinstatement cost — what it would cost to rebuild from scratch — for insurance purposes. Many properties are either over-insured (paying too much premium) or under-insured (dangerously exposed in the event of total loss). An independent insurance valuation gives you the accurate figure.
Commercial Building Surveys
The commercial equivalent of a residential building survey, covering offices, retail units, industrial premises, and mixed-use buildings. Used by buyers, tenants, landlords, and investors to understand the condition and liabilities of a commercial property before committing.
💡 Not sure which service you need? The type of property, the reason for the survey, and what you plan to do with the findings all affect which service is right. Get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.
What should I look for in a residential property surveyor?
When choosing a surveyor in South East London, the most important things to look for are:
- Local experience — a surveyor who knows the area's housing stock, common defect types, and local market conditions
- Professional accreditation — membership of a recognised professional body
- Clear, readable reports — ask to see a sample report before instructing
- Ability to discuss findings — you should be able to speak with the surveyor directly after receiving the report
- Fixed, transparent fees — no hidden extras
📋 SurveyCORE provides the full range of residential surveying services across South East London. Get a fixed-fee quote today.